#the world truly is beautiful in its diversity

[vamptoll]

It's always funny when someone asks why Yuri manga will have clear tops and bottoms, and the expert Yuri posters explain that it's because some authors are too familiar with Yaoi. Because the real reason is Japan's gay women have a HUGE top/bottom culture, so much so that asking top or bottom in the first conversation is not seen as strange.

[headspace-hotel]

I agree with the idea that a lot of humans nowadays have a severe lack of curiosity about the world, but I think there has to be a solution other than shame.

I think about this every day because the fate of our world hangs on curiosity: either we will rediscover the importance and wonders of the soil and bugs and flowers and water and finally with the whole natural world, or this way will be forgotten.

People raised in the great wasteland of the suburbs and roads and buildings have never seen most of the plants and creatures that are supposed to fill every field and meadow. So many humans have never seen with their own eyes more than a scant few of the most common of hundreds of wildflowers that are supposed to surround them. Some live in biomes designated forest and have never witnessed truly mature trees. They do not know what the birds sound like. When they see an ordinary deer, they are awed and amazed by it or even afraid of it. They have never eaten any of the delicious wild fruits that grow in their homeland; all birds except starlings and robins and sparrows are so strange and beautiful that they stare in wonder. They confront insects like people on an alien planet encountering an unknown life form: What is this? Will it hurt me?

I cannot even describe the grief I feel on behalf of humans that grow up and live in the wasteland of pavement and lawn. That we are expected to live in these brutal environments, that we are expected to be content without the right or ability to live alongside living creatures, to walk among wildflowers, to hear birdsong, to feel the plush softness of moss, to see even common bees and butterflies—the fact that we live, work, and raise our children in poisonous wastes where nearly everything has been wiped out, and the simplest and most abundant of natural pleasures are rare privileges—it's cruel. It's a crime against the human spirit. It makes me so angry and sad.

When I started researching plants, I had no idea that I would end up expanding my mind so much that I would be virtually a different person within the year. Before I learned, I could not have imagined the diversity and beauty that exists in the world. My mind did not have the tools to come up with it.

I lived for over twenty years believing that there was only one species of firefly. I lived for over twenty years not knowing that the Southeastern US has native bamboo. I had never tasted the indescribable flavor of a pawpaw or seen the iridescent vibrance of a red-spotted purple butterfly. I had only seen a Pileated Woodpecker out the window of a car. I had never touched true topsoil, the soft, living blanket of rich, sweet-smelling earth full of mycelium, as springy and plush as a mattress. Just one year ago, I knew nothing!

Humans, as creatures, are insatiably curious and hunger for beauty. It is so cruel to deprive a human of relationship with their natural environment.

It is no wonder that we are all addicted to the internet—we have a crucial need that is unfulfilled. Compared with a forest, the world of lawns and buildings is so ridiculously flat and unstimulating. You would expect humans in such a place to feel constantly bored, restless, frustrated, and incurably sad.

I feel that lack of curiosity can be a chosen thing, but it is also a defense mechanism against a world that will feel like sandpaper on the senses of the curious.

But we need curiosity to fix this—we need the ability to notice the living things that have crept in at the edges of the wasteland and be infected and tormented by their beauty. We need to recognize the forest reaching into our cage in the form of tiny saplings. We need to discard the word "weed," not because it is derogatory because it is fundamentally incurious—it designates a plant as needing no identity outside of its unwantedness. We must learn their names. We must wonder what their names are.

[arijackz]

PICK A CARD: What Will Your FS Admire Most About You?

⚤ “I love you without knowing how, or when, or from where. I love you simply, without problems or pride: I love you in this way because I do not know any other way of loving but this, in which there is no I or you, so intimate that your hand upon my chest is my hand, so intimate that when I fall asleep your eyes close.” - Pablo Neruda

Disclaimer: This is a general reading, take what resonates. This is a gender-neutral reading, disregard any pronouns that do not apply to you.

p1 → p2 ↙︎ p3 → p4

✠ Pile One ✠ (King of Cups,Page of Cups,The World,7)

✧ Cards went wiillldddd. You stir up so much emotion in this person, it’s crazy. Your heart chakra is front and center here. You are picture-perfect harmony and universal love to your spouse. Your love can’t be contained, you love them, your friends, your favorite mug, worms out in the rain, strangers, the moon, and all the stars in the sky.

✧ All I see is a wide-ass smile, the biggest, wateriest eyes, and full cheeks. Your spouse thinks you’re sunshine-incarnated.

✧ This will sound corny, but your heart and love for the world and all its diversity make you appear angelic; God’s gift to humanity. The emotional depth you have is nothing shy of divine. Your ability to understand and reconnect your person with their inner dreamer makes you irreplaceable in their eyes. 

✧ I feel like your future spouse had to navigate around a lot of emotionally stunted people who left scars that prevented them from forming healthy relationships. Your empathy and desire to make space for peace and unity in this world give them hope that true love is alive and they are the lucky son of a bitch who gets to call an angel, theirs.

✧ I smell salt and hear waves. (I bet you’re tired of the cheesy poetry but HEY, me and your boo are OBSESSED with your energy) You truly are as beautiful and powerful as the seven seas.

✧ You know the Ouroboros, and how it's sometimes depicted as a snake wrapped around the oceans, holding onto its tail to keep the world together? Yea, that. To your future partner, you hold the key to their world. You add so much color and vibrancy. You turn over their inner ocean and awaken so much repressed child-like wonder within them.

✧ Wow. Your spouse loves the depths of you.

✧ Check for water placements, signs, and houses, in your natal chart. Some of you have insane intuition and have clairsenses. Clairaudience to be specific.

✧ Some of you are active in charities or aspire to make a difference in society. Maybe you’re into esoteric practices or anything else metaphysical.

✧ I even have a few philosophers here. Okay, KANT! (somebody please get this joke)

She Excites the Seven Seas

✠ Pile Two ✠ (Ace of Pentacles,8oW,The Emperor rev., “I Want”)

I love the kind of woman that will actually just kill me

✧ Of course, you don’t have to be a woman but that TikTok sound SCREAMED at me. Your future spouse is lowkey intimidated by you and they love it.

✧ You have big dreams. Big plans. But most importantly, a million and one ways to get you where you need to be. Your ability to say “I want this,” and then actually go out and GET it?? Your spouse is like the meme that goes “I’m a little scared, but I’m turned on.”

✧ I also see that you’re unconventional. If people have been doing whatever you want to do a certain way for years, you'll find ways to do it differently, just cause. You’re a true trailblazer. Your self-conviction is so damn alluring. Even for the people who struggle with insecurity sometimes, once you get over that hump and decide that you desire something, you fucking get it. Your partner sees you like magic. They are impressed by just how quickly your desires are set in motion for you. They feel that you are powerful and bring a great deal of power to them from just being in your proximity.

✧ You are also the “I don’t take shit from nobody” type. Not from strangers, not from your friends, your family, not even from your partner. In their eyes, you know your worth and have a strong self-foundation that nobody can tear down. There is genuine admiration and respect here. I even get the “I want to be like you when I grow up” mentality.

✧ There is a speediness to you they find very attractive. Either the way you behave, speak, or just stress about time, your pacing holds a special place in their heart. (or maybe, despite all of your responsibilities, you manage to find stillness in the chaos and slow down when necessary)

✧ The way you speak drives this person wild. It's like your voice narrates their thoughts and is the source of all of their arousal. Do with that information what you will...(don't be cruel, you make this person so nervous).

✧ I shuffled through a playlist and E-GIRLS ARE RUINING MY LIFE!! by Corpse came on and one of the lyrics goes,

She just look into my soul with them Shinigami eye Coke in my nose and a blade on her thigh. Man, I think this girl is really trying to plan my demise

✧ Yea, you put the fear of God into this person, but in a good way! Your presence can be chilling sometimes. Fire energy for sure. There are definitely people here from pile 2 of my first pac, “What are your most alluring qualities?”, check that out if you want to.

✧ Okay, this energy has me needing to take a LAP, bye.

"Man, I Think This Girl Tryna Plan My Demise"

✠ Pile Three ✠ (10oW, 9oW)(no other cards wanted to come out, real stubborn)

✧ Okay so, this feels specific?... and maybe even a lil off topic but I feel called to say this

✧ I sense that you and your person are psychically connected and share the mutual feeling that the two of you are meant to cross paths. The both of you have gotten your fair share of fuckery in this lifetime and this union feels like divine justice.

✧ This sounds a little fucked up, but you guys flourish amid trauma. Dark energy alchmaziers. You best wield your potential while you’re going THROUGH it.

✧ You had to “die” and bury yourself a dozen times to get where you are today.

✧ You are a very evolved individual. Throughout your life, traumatic events and relationships have forced you to bear a lot of weight on your back and it’s like the pressure has forged you into a diamond. With each curveball life threw at you, you stood tall and pushed to make something of yourself, proving your worth after a lifetime of strife and instability.

✧ Scorpio/Capricorn and 8th house/10th house placements. (check midpoints).

✧ A lot of you have tense shoulders, upper back, shoulder, and neck pain from the unease and anxiety your body carries. You have insomnia and may even struggle with nightmares.

✧ This person you’re coming into union with is so healing.

✧ This is something the both of you broke down and prayed for on your darkest days. This is a true partner, the soul that kept yours warm when the world was so cold. You had to put your dreamier side on the back burner to survive. This person will make you feel safe to dream again.

✧ I don’t have anything specific to say because you and your person feel so secretive  You two recognize each other’s pain and are the only people you guys trust. Like not even lil ol’ me can really get through to y'all. Y’all ride AND die for each other, in this life and the next.

✧ If you’re into astrology and already have a feel for who this person is, check your guys’ composite chart. Strong Scorpio energy here.

✧ Coming into union with this person will feel like a wish fulfillment.

✧ (short pile, it felt like a quick message for those of you who feel this connection telepathically. This is probably a secondary choice.)

"I Want To Caress The Piece of Me Within You"

✠ Pile Four ✠ (Queen of Wands, 9oP rev., 7oP, 4oP rev., the high priestess, queen of cups, “I will”)

✧ You’re a bad bitch, truly. Your fs isn’t calling you a bitch, buuuttttt she a baddie, she know she a ten! She a baddie with her baddie…. wait a minute…

✧ You may not have a lot of friends? You keep your circle tight-knit because you have been deeply hurt in the past and you guard your peace fiercely. For some of you, your home life was quite tumultuous and you struggle with financial security and inner happiness. It seemed like the world did not want you to feel good about yourself or succeed.

✧ Do you know that viral display of a deer’s ribcage with a spear through it, and how even though an attempt was made on the deer’s life, he managed to survive and lived for years after that event; all while still growing bone marrow with a giant fucking spear through its ribcage?

✧ “A close encounter with a hunter left the deer with several broken ribs and part of an arrow embedded in its body. Remarkably, the animal survived, and bone grew around the shaft and arrowhead lodged in the creature's side."

✧ "The deer lived with the arrow inside its body until years later, when another hunter killed the animal, cut the deer open, and discovered its amazing secret…As the tough tissue formed over the arrow, it acted as a splint for the damaged rib cage, strengthening the deer's injured body.”

✧ I highlighted some words that needed emphasizing. That’s how your partner sees you. They are in complete awe of the resilience and sheer tenacity you hold. They look at you and can’t believe the person before their eyes. The troubling history you usually try to hide from your romantic partners is exactly what allures this person. 

✧ You won’t ever lay on your belly and cry about life passing you by. You aren’t the type to victimize yourself and “woe is me” your way out of self-improvement.

✧ You are quite ambitious and aim to push forward, even if the odds are stacked against you.

✧ I get the message that some people in this pile have struggled with self-harm over the years. Your partner wants to kneel down and kiss your scars like a white knight, and vow to protect you emotionally and physically for as long as you’ll have them.

✧ The spear-deer imagery is so interesting. The deer represents virality. It is a symbol of piety, gentleness, devotion, and fertility. Especially with the queen of wands, the high priestess, AND the queen of cups, you provide profound love, passion, and insight to this person. However, even as a deer, you are quite badass???

✧ You are as gentle as a strand of hair but as strong as wool. Dainty but unbreakable.

✧ They have no desire to infantilize you because they know you are already your own greatest warrior. But they don’t want you to feel that you have to fight alone. Whatever burdens are on your plate, they take away as much as possible because they want to be a piece of the paradise you fight for.

✧ This is meant to be a short pac, a Tumblr post won’t do the unbelievable strength in your character much justice. Just know that your fs is so fucking in love with you and wants to spend their life by your side because of just how awe-struck they are by you.

✧ I mean c’mon… will YOU ever forget the story of the coolest fucking deer in existence??

"I Yearn To Be the Name You Call Out in Victory"

[windser]

PLEASE write out that sylus work. The fandom beeds more spicy MCs and i can tell she would give him a run for his money

pairing: mc x sylus (soulmate!au) wc: 1.2k+

a/n: loooool here is just a bit of a teaser for how i imagined it all playing out. i highly doubt this is how mc and sylus will meet BUT its so fitting for how i image their dynamic playing out. but i really do want to wait for the official drop so I can confirm his characterization. [based on this post]

⋆.ೃ࿔.𖥔 ݁ ˖*:･༄ ⋆.ೃ࿔.𖥔 ݁ ˖*:･༄⋆.ೃ࿔.𖥔 ݁ ˖*:･༄⋆.ೃ࿔.𖥔 ݁ ˖*:･༄⋆.ೃ࿔.𖥔 ݁ ˖*:･༄

"he’s asking for me ?"

"he identified you by your mark."

your palm immediately goes to cover your wrist, blocking the neat scrawl from view. but it was little too late at this point.

you had never really taken care to hide your soulmate mark from the world. to bear it publicly was often a act of seeking from the individual, showing it proudly as if it might attract their pair sooner.

but for you, it was just as obscure seen or hidden, the mundaneness lining the words that felt like it would never truly have meaning.

‘you’re beautiful’

in your youth days, you thought it was the most romantic gesture to know that your fated person had such a high option of you at first glance. but the years tarnished that same phrase, after hearing it from too many loose lips with hollower intentions.

now it was just a first tattoo, fated second.

the slouch of your shoulder is nonchalant in gesture, though equally weighed down by the situation. “he probably just has intel on it. i’m too careless in the field if i can be identified so easily."

it was a crude bluff, a mere diversion from the pending truth. because yes, it was an indefinite, but only one individual in the world would ever need to find someone based on it.

besides this was the presumed leader of onichynus.

even considering the idea was a headache.

tara shuffles to the right at the sound of your name and you both look up to see jenna waiting, ready by the door.

her quiet nod feels like a direct pang to your temple.

right, a headache indeed.

࿓࿓༄༄࿓

though captured, albeit suspiciously easy, the operation did not come without effort. reportedly there were no casualties but it had been a battle enough in the end.

jenna warns you of as much as the two of you descend further into lower levels of the security facility. there weren’t many criminals who fit the eligibility to be locked behind maximum security. the hiss of the heavy steel doors partying to grant entry spoke volumes about the threshold needed to hold such a threat.

the leader of onichynus was an old tale but not the first. it never occurred to you until now what other individuals might be stored away here for the safety of linkon city.

“ma’am”

the hunter standing before the last sealed door saluted jenna with a stiff salute, the action drawing your attention to the smear of red against his palm.

a battle indeed.

jenna answers with a more tempered gesture, less precise with exhaustion.

“any changes?”

you’d been sent home early into the conclusion of the operation, leaving the higher ups to decide how to deal with the sour victory. it had been less than twelve hours since then and you doubted jenna spent a second of it resting.

the same could he said of the officer standing guard who looked like if he leaned against the wall for even a moment he would slump over.

“none.”

his gaze flicked briefly to you, then down. “is this...?”

it seemed that the leader of onichynus was very vocal with his demands. even without tara's penchant for information, it was now no wonder how everyone knew of your predicament.

you had taken care to clasp your arms behind your back but it seemed the damage was already done.

“the deal was confirmation enough, though at this point it’s all formality.” jenna is addressing you now. her lips turn as she observes the door as if she could see through it. perhaps feeling the aura was enough.

“this is late to mention but you don’t have to do this.”

tardy indeed given that she had already led you to the lion’s den. your face seems to display enough of that sentiment given her sigh.

“if this is true-“ if this man if truly your soulmate, goes unsaid. “then council will reassess the situation.”

the words taste asinine even when they don’t come from your mouth. it wasn’t as if your fate could twist their judgement. the man behind those doors has earned his sentence, it was too late to draw you into the equation.

besides, what would you even do with a criminal as a soulmate? this early in the game, you could cut your loses and actually prepare for a non-fated pairing.

what you did know was that nothing was going to change with one-half meeter of steel between you.

“well let’s see what’s behind door number three.”

jenna doesn’t comment on the joke, likely attributing it to nerves. but in truth, you were just as ready as everyone else to get this over with.

given you had not been present at the exact capture, the face of onichynus still a mystery to you. though this close, you couldn’t help but recall that feeling of the ominous gaze hanging over you. it was one of the few times you had placed the feeling out of your nightmares. the knowledge that it came from the individual fate had decided to pair you with may as well have been the jest of the century.

so yeah you want this over with so you could get the last laugh.

with Jenna’s assent, the officer clears the few steps needed to join his peers where after a short order, the final steel doors began to part.

jenna doesn’t move forward, so neither do you. though you can’t help the slight tense in your limbs as you prepare for ... what a fight or flight?

there was research, anecdotes and stories about the first gaze but you never really summed up what you thought your experience would be.

‘you’re beautiful’

you’d heard it so many times before. would it really be so different this time?

what you notice first is the bareness of the room, appearing as just that, an empty space. well not completely empty; for at its center was a man. one who someone took up every parameter while only being rooted in a single square.

UNICORNS holding measures were … questionable, leaving him in a simple chair with only what you imagined were handcuffs to keep him rooted. this man who nearly cleared an entire squadron. though you supposed an escape wouldn’t come easy for him.

him, who was not just a man, but the dangerous leader to an illegal organization chasing the aether core. a figure with ashen hair and vermillion eyes. a figure with ashen hair and vermillion eyes, likely deprived of rest since his capture, though he didn't give off the impression of losing any sleep over it. he also sported more than a few smudges of dark crimson, making him appear every bit as dangerous as his lore suggested.

you think you hear a sound of protest from jenna as you take a challenging step forward, but it falls on deaf ears as inquisitiveness wins out.

he certainly fit the bill of a criminal figure. yet as he sat there, chained to a simple chair, chest rising with each breath with that slight tilt of his lips. there was just something else that made it hard to believe that this could possibly be your soulmate, questionable choices aside.

the man seemed to take your silence as an invitation as he spoke first.

“you’re beautiful.”

and in that instance, all of the violence and ominousness bled away, leaving just a man tied to a chair with dark eyes looking up at you with expectation.

you don’t realize your lips are curling downward as your eyes flicker back to his hands which were pinned behind his back.

and with your next words you sealed your fate forever.

“sorry, I’m not into subs.”

[matthewfuckinggraygubler]

Belayed kiss || Spencer Reid

· Pairing: Spencer Reid/Reader · Category: Fluff · Warning: None · Words: 1455 · Summary : Losing your favorite book was a real downer, but having Spencer there to help you search through the chaos of your apartment was a lifesaver. That book was your escape, your safe haven. A spontaneous remark from you shifted the mood,revealing the feelings we'd both been hiding. It was like finding a hidden treasure.

· Spanish on Wattpad. English isn’t my first language, be kind!

· Masterlist

You’d been friends for a couple of years. Well, he would say “2 years, 4 months, 9 days” exactly. And even though no boundaries had ever been crossed and neither of you had wanted to take things further, somehow you both knew there was something more. Without wanting to admit it, because it would imply a shift in dynamics, and that was just too complicated.

It was a quiet morning in your small apartment, but you were anything but calm. The mess of books, cushions, and a few scattered empty coffee cups across the living room was a testament to your frantic search. You had been looking for your favorite book for days, and the frustration was starting to consume you. Spencer, being the good friend he was, had offered to help because this really was a drama for you.

The reason why that book was so important to you was more than just its content. It was a beautiful edition you had bought years ago; with a binding that made you feel safe, the embossed texture of the cover. Opening it filled you with a comforting scent, and each word on its pages embraced you when you needed it most. It was your refuge, your little escape when the world got too loud or confusing.

Spencer was crouched down, inspecting the stack of boxes you had piled in a corner, while you checked a bookshelf for the fourth time, hoping the book would magically materialize. You couldn’t help but feel a knot in your stomach, fearing it was truly lost forever.

Then, suddenly, Spencer broke the silence.

“I found it, it was behind this box, it must have fallen. You should be more organized…”

You spun on your heels, seeing Spencer stand up with the book in his hands, as intact as the last time you had seen it. The mixture of relief and joy was so overwhelming that the words flew out of your mouth before you could stop yourself.

“Oh my God!! Thank you!! I could kiss you right now!!”

The silence that followed was palpable. Spencer stood still, his eyes wide as he looked at you, as if trying to decipher whether you had actually said what he thought you had said.

“R-really…?” he asked. The tone of his voice, full of a mix of surprise and disbelief, made you realize what you had just implied.

Your reaction was immediate, laughing a little to ease the tension you noticed in him, brushing it off.

“Well, it’s just a figure of speech, Spencer.”

He nodded slowly, but there was something in his eyes, something you hadn’t seen before, and for a moment, you seemed to see through his calm and rational facade.

“Oh, right, sure… Okay.” He responded, but his voice had a different tone, one that almost seemed… disappointed.

You’d been friends for a couple of years. Well, he would say “2 years, 4 months, 9 days,” exactly. And in all that time, you had built a friendship that was invaluable to you. You shared almost everything: long conversations about the most diverse topics, movie nights, and discussions about literature that stretched into the early hours of the morning. But there was a line, a line neither of you had crossed, and for some reason, the idea of crossing it had always seemed terrifying.

As you sat on the couch, holding the book you had finally recovered, you realized the room was wrapped in an uncomfortable silence. Spencer had sat down beside you, but he was staring at the floor, clearly lost in his thoughts.

Your heart began to race, and you silently cursed yourself for making such an impulsive comment. However, there was something in his reaction that you couldn’t ignore. That spark of vulnerability in his eyes, that tone in his voice… Could it be that Spencer had been waiting for this, maybe even wanting it? That realization made you aware of how much you wanted it too.

The tension between you was now palpable, and you knew that no matter how hard you tried to ignore it, something had changed in the air. There was something more between you, something neither of you had wanted to admit, but now seemed impossible to keep ignoring, and you didn’t know how to go back.

You decided to take a deep breath and break the silence, feeling that if you didn’t, the discomfort would keep growing. And without even realizing it, the words came out, you didn’t think.

“Spence…” you said, your voice nervous, almost inaudible. “I think… I could kiss you right now…”

He turned to look at you with those intense brown eyes. The silence stretched, but this time it wasn’t uncomfortable. You could feel time slowing down, each second filled with a tension so thick it felt almost tangible. He held your gaze, that gaze that had always been a refuge for you, full of intelligence and warmth.

“R-really…?” he whispered, as if afraid it was a joke or a mistake. As if he wanted to make sure this time you meant it.

Your head moved slowly up and down, confirming it, you could feel the heat rising from your neck to your cheeks. Your heart was beating so loudly you were sure he could hear it too. But you couldn’t back down now, you didn’t want to.

Spencer didn’t say anything else. There was no need. Slowly, as if afraid to break the spell that surrounded you both, he leaned in towards you in a careful movement, but his eyes never left yours, searching for any trace of doubt. There wasn’t any.

When his lips finally brushed against yours, it was as if everything else disappeared. The outside world ceased to exist; there was no time, no space, only that moment, only you and Spencer. The kiss was soft, almost like a question, seeking an answer you both already knew. It was a kiss that had been building for years, full of all the unspoken words and unadmitted feelings. And in that instant, you knew everything had changed, but for the better.

You found yourself moving closer, your hands finding their way to his neck, while he let the book fall, already forgotten, to tangle his fingers in your hair. The kiss deepened, becoming more sure, more urgent, as if both of you were trying to make up for lost time.

When you finally pulled apart, both of you were breathing heavily, but your foreheads remained together. A small smile formed on your lips, and you noticed Spencer smiling too, though with a touch of shyness that made him even more charming.

“I think… I should have kissed you a long time ago.” You murmured, not daring to break the closeness completely.

Spencer let out a soft laugh, his voice warm against your skin. “I’m not sure why we waited so long…”

You looked at him, and in his eyes, you found the same mixture of relief and joy.

“So… does this mean I get to kiss you every time I find a lost book?” he asked with a playful tone.

You playfully smacked his arm, laughing. “You don’t need me to lose a book to want to kiss me, Spencer.”

His eyes sparkled with a tenderness that made you melt. “Can I kiss you now, then?”

You nodded without a second thought, and when his lips found yours again, you knew that no matter how many times you kissed, it would always feel special, intense, like that first kiss. Suddenly, you didn’t feel the need to seek refuge in your book. You felt like you were exactly where you wanted to be. The uncertainty and doubts faded away, and you realized that, for the first time in a long time, you were exactly where you wanted to be, where all the pieces fit perfectly, in Spencer Reid’s · Requests via DM ·

[ena-writes-stuff]

— love in the paddock.

˒ ⌕ amidst the excitement and chaos of traveling the world to support your boyfriend's racing career, you find solace in his affectionate gestures and supportive presence, despite his pre-race anxieties and the whirlwind of grand prix events.

— warnings: female reader, use of his real name

— words count: 1.3k

· · ─────── ·𖥸· ─────── · ·

The weekend always brimmed with intense emotions and excitement. There was something profoundly exhilarating about knowing that, each week, life offered the opportunity to explore new horizons. It still felt a bit surreal to be able to travel to so many countries each year, all to watch your boyfriend compete in yet another racing circuit. Australia, Japan, Abu Dhabi, Brazil — the list seemed endless, each destination offering new landscapes and cultures to discover. The ability to choose from such diverse locales felt almost magical. Each trip was a unique adventure, a dream come true. As a child, you had fantasized about these distant places, and now, you were living that fantasy.

Yet, despite the constant change of scenery and the perpetual sense of wonder, there was an element of strangeness that never quite disappeared. With every new destination and each new weekend, you marveled at the reality that this was, in fact, your everyday life. The chance to visit countries that once seemed so distant and unattainable still held the power to surprise you. And although you weren’t entirely accustomed to this new reality, you continued to delight in the world's wonders, all while cheering wholeheartedly for your boyfriend’s success on the racetrack.

The paddock at the Spanish Grand Prix was extraordinarily busy — more so than usual. Barcelona, a city already known for its vibrant hustle, seemed even more chaotic on race day. However, there was a glimmer of hope that the journey to the Red Bull Racing garage might be quieter than anticipated.

Amidst the frenzy — the constant noise of mechanics working at a frenzied pace and the fans erupting in cheers with each driver’s appearance —, an unexpected sense of calm descended when you spotted Alexis talking with the engineers. His presence at the center of the action seemed to create an oasis of tranquility amid the chaos. The focus of the engineers and his interactions with them conveyed a sense of control and professionalism that helped dissipate the paddock’s agitation.

Charming was perhaps the most fitting description of him. Every time you saw him in his racing suit, adorned in vibrant shades of indigo, red, and yellow, you couldn’t help but be captivated. These colors had become his signature, alongside the Mexican flag emblazoned on the lower part of his abdomen. He held the white balaclava with casual grace, his dark hair tousled as if resisting control. The number 66, emblazoned on his broad back, held a special significance — a number he had embraced with affection, symbolizing his bond with racing since that first major event where he first used it.

He truly stood out as the golden boy of Red Bull Racing.

“You’ve arrived!” Alexis’ voice rang out with contagious enthusiasm as he spotted you, cutting off any conversation he was having. In that instant, the world seemed to vanish; nothing else mattered but your presence. “Did you have trouble finding the garage? I could have come to get you, querida.”

The softness in his voice when addressing you was a stark contrast to the moments of frustration you had witnessed before. Through the radio, you had heard the irritation and expletives he’d utter when things didn’t go as planned. Yet, when speaking to you, he transformed entirely. His voice became warm and affectionate, as if he set aside the harshness of the daily grind and revealed a gentler, more caring side.

“You look so beautiful. I promise we’ll go to that Italian restaurant I really like after the race,” he said, his smile radiating love as he gently touched the VIP lanyard hanging from his neck. The lanyard, a simple piece, displayed a photo of you with your full name and the words “Alexis’ guest” printed in elegant letters. “You’ll wait for me here, won’t you?”

“Of course I will, silly,” you replied with a smile that conveyed all your certainty. It might have been the simplest question of the day, but you knew how much it meant to him. It was a small tradition between you — a gesture of support and love that made a big difference, no matter how simple. “I wouldn’t miss watching you race for the world.”

You glanced around, taking in the bustling crowd, the people moving with excitement, and the corridors preparing for the practice session. It was an important event for him, and you were there, ready to support him every step of the way.

“Great, great,” he said, repeating the phrase with almost palpable nervousness. When anxious, he fixated on certain expressions, repeating them incessantly — a detail you found endearing rather than annoying. “That’s great, that’s great.”

You watched as he tried to compose himself. “Are you nervous?” you asked gently, running your fingers through his hair. The touch was meant to offer comfort and reassurance. He responded with a click of his tongue, a subtle sound reflecting his discomfort more than effective communication.

He tilted his head towards your hand, seeking the affection you offered as if it were the only thing capable of soothing his momentary anxiety. Your presence seemed to be a refuge amidst his restless thoughts.

“It’s my first time racing on this circuit. I’m afraid I might not qualify and end up not winning and —”

His monologue was almost a constant in such situations. Even before getting into the race car, he was consumed with the worry of potentially failing. It was as if anxiety had already taken over before the race had even begun.

You knew these bouts of insecurity were common for him, but you always tried to calm him. “Alex, darling, today is still Friday,” you interrupted softly, steering him away from the whirlwind of negative thoughts. He fell silent, visibly relieved to have someone to offer support and guidance. His brown eyes, usually sparkling with determination, were now fixed on yours, revealing a vulnerability he rarely showed.

“You’ll only be racing for real on Sunday,” you continued, offering a reassuring smile. “Today is just practice. And it’s okay if you don’t win this race.”

He nodded slowly, absorbing your words. He wrapped his arm around your waist, pulling you into a warm, affectionate hug. His embrace was firm yet gentle, conveying a sense of security and tenderness. With a tenderness only he could express, he kissed your temples lightly, his touch soft and comforting. He made no effort to break contact, allowing you to lose yourself in the familiar, reassuring scent of his racing suit.

The moment between you was perfect, filled with a silent, shared love. However, the tranquility was abruptly interrupted by a mechanic’s voice echoing through the environment with friendly urgency.

“Alexis, ten minutes until practice starts!”

Despite the urgency, the voice seemed distant compared to the warmth and intimacy of the embrace you shared. Alexis grumbled quietly, a sound mixing frustration with reluctance. He let you go but not before stealing a series of delicate kisses on your lips. His lips were soft and warm, pressing lovingly against yours. He held your face with both hands, his fingers fitting perfectly to the shape of your face. You couldn’t help but laugh at the sensation of his caresses — a light, infectious laugh that seemed to make time stand still for a brief moment.

You loved when he showed affection in public. There was something genuine and special about how he demonstrated his feelings for you, regardless of the presence of others. It was as if the world around you simply vanished, leaving only the warmth of his love.

“Will I see you in a bit?” he asked, his smile a blend of anticipation and love. He already knew the answer, but the question was a ritual, a moment to reaffirm your bond. As you nodded and returned the smile, he pinched your cheeks tenderly.

“Great. I love you.”

His words were simple but filled with deep, sincere emotion.

“I love you too, always.” Your reply was a promise, a guarantee that, no matter what happened next, the love between you would remain constant and unwavering.

[nothoughts-onlywomen]

Pink Floyd’s The Wall

This BTS photo has really piqued my interest. Not just because it’s clearly a hint at something for season 5, but also because it happens to be one of my favorite albums ever. So, I thought I’d do a deep dive into how it might factor into the next season.

Full disclaimer: All these ideas I’m about to verbal vomit will make more sense if you watch the film here and/or listen to the album here. I truly recommend you seek it out. Far and away, it’s one of my favorite films/albums, and it’s stood the test of time. In fact, there are certain sequences that may be a little triggering in our current US political climate (I’m thinking of the “In The Flesh/Run Like Hell/Waiting for the Worms” sequence).

War. The Wall is about war; namely, the bitter uselessness of it. The film has a lot of anti-war imagery. Young soldiers wounded and vulnerable, doves exploding into crows, a bloody cross, etc. The film ends with a culturally diverse group of children picking up rubble from the war. There’s a beautiful image where a child pours out a Molotov cocktail. The meaning there is that children are taught to hate and kill, and once they are, the joy of youth is smothered by it. Now I can think of a few scenarios where this is relevant to our crew. This could have something to do with the war against Vecna, in that our kiddos are so young to be fighting this war, and that it will inevitably chip away parts of them. For some, it may take limbs, or even lives. There may also be an assertion that Henry Creel was taught to hate, rather than it being an inevitable part of him. El suggested this at the end of season 4, when she asserts to Vecna that Papa made him a monster. The nuance within the anti-war message of The Wall is that the main character, Pink, lost his father in World War II. Henry Creel’s father went to war (the exact same war, in fact) which is an interesting similarity, but I think greater parallels should be drawn between Pink and Henry Creel in terms of how their relationship with their father (or lack thereof) led to their emotional erosion. And when I’m referring to Henry’s father, I’m not necessarily talking about Victor, though their relationship may have been complex. I’m referring to Dr. Brenner as well. Now the major difference between Pink and Henry - at least, so far - is that Pink is shown to have a soft, gentle side to him. This gets smothered as his emotional wall grows taller. I don’t know if Vecna ever had anything of the sort, but we know that Will is nothing if not gentle. And if they’re going to draw parallels between Will and Henry next season, I have to think there’s some meaning in there somewhere.

Conformity. It should be noted that the film takes place during World War II, so the conformity themes were especially prevalent in those days - the days of Hitler and the Nazi regime. Pink attends a school where the children all wear masks and stand on an assembly line, eventually to be thrown into a meat grinder. All very heavy-handed symbolism, I know. But the idea is that society attempts to suppress individuality and corner the youth into becoming part of the mindless whole. Blessedly, toward the end of the school sequence, the kids all rip off their masks and rebel. Now, in reference to our friends in Hawkins, this could be a nod to how the group has never been afraid to be the “freaks,” and that conformity is meaningless to them. Stranger Things has always reveled in the beauty of being yourself in the face of societal labels. The Wall also utilizes hammers in much of its imagery, which is supposed to symbolize the hammer pounding a nail into submission. With the individual being the nail, and the oppressive whole being the hammer. To me, this hearkens back to the “hive mind” idea. The Mind Flayer operates from this hive mind, and so any deviation from this would be quickly and mightily suppressed. I also addressed the idea of the “hive mind” in my theory about the Wrinkle in Time Easter egg, and how the planet Camazotz adopts this same concept (read here if you feel so inclined). Will Vecna be this deviation? If not, who will? One of the kids? Will Dart break away from an army of demogorgons to save Dustin? I can’t see the Mind Flayer being thrilled about it regardless of how it manifests.

Emotional isolation. Pink undergoes a descent into emotional isolation. The wall itself is symbolic of the emotional wall he builds around his heart, insofar each negative event in his life is “another brick in the wall.” Once his emotional isolation is complete, he becomes callous and disconnected with others. He fantasizes about committing atrocities, even becoming a Hitler-like figure in his imaginings. Such emotional isolation is likely present within Vecna as well, as only someone with a real disconnection from their emotions could kill people in the ways that Vecna has. That scary face on the poster, in fact, is emotion, trying to break free of the wall. A scream of agony from within. Perhaps the Duffers will explore this within Vecna. Perhaps Vecna has some small shred of humanity left that the group will try to capitalize upon. At the climax of The Wall, Pink puts himself on trial in his mind with a judge that is a literal asshole (yes, it’s as batshit as it sounds), and the wall is torn down within him. The album ends with a spoken message that loops into the beginning track, suggesting that the conundrum of emotional wall-building will never end. Perhaps the group will attempt to tear down Vecna’s emotional walls. The Duffers are good enough writers to make us feel at least some empathy for Vecna, if we hadn’t already, and this might just be a continuation of this. There is also the possibility that one of our other kiddos starts to emotionally isolate. It could be any of them: Mike, Will, Lucas, Dustin, El, or Max. I’m less inclined to believe it would be one of the older kids, though they’ve all certainly got their own demons. None of them will become as twisted as Vecna, of course, but I could see them struggling against their own emotional walls. We’ve seen Max do a bit of this already. It would be a real shot to the heart if the Duffers utilized a deeply sad track like “Nobody’s Home” or a wistful, melancholic tune like “Comfortably Numb” to describe Max’s consciousness literally being absent from her at the moment. I think Will is also an ideal candidate for this concept, especially if (as I suggested earlier), we are going to draw similarities between him and Henry Creel. The ending song on the album, “Outside the Wall,” postulates that those who truly love you will walk up and down outside your emotional wall, banging on it, trying to tear it down and thus forge deeper connection. We’ve seen this happen with Max a bit, and I could certainly see it happening with Will, too.

Mental illness. Pink is suggested to have a mental illness. He’s not particularly easy to slap a diagnosis on (though based on the information we do have, I might have put him in the schizoid/schizotypal/schizoaffective territory. Depression with psychotic features at the very least). Mental illness isn’t a topic that heavily explored in Stranger Things, though season 4 definitely had some poignant things to say about depression. But I’m wondering - if they do decide to touch on this somewhat - if this will hint at a deeper dive into Vecna’s psyche. Killing small animals is generally a precursor to actual murder, and this was certainly the case when it came to Henry Creel, but we have yet to really unpack all of this. We’ve gotten hints. Vecna noting that he “never forgets a kill” and “they are always with me” is a very interesting concept I will be curious to learn more about.

I would love to hear any additional thoughts on this.

[irkenproperty]

So Dib, tell us a story of how you met your little feral Zim, Got to know each other, how did you communicate? all the way up to having babies😊

Beautiful mini-fic under cut by my BFF and very talented RP-partner @darthzadr , about how we RP'ed Zim and Dib's meeting, please read it!

Her fic commissions are open, btw!

🩷⬇️💙⬇️🩷⬇️💙⬇️🩷⬇️💙

Earth. A blue and green paradise teaming with life both too small to see with the naked eye, all the way up to enormous creatures great enough to snuff out those very lives beneath them with a single step. Luscious forests and greenery spread out as far as the eye could see, running for miles and miles until meeting with its lover, the ocean - and there were so many different oceans, too! Some were blue and alive, and nourishing to the entire planet. Some were yellow; oceans of sand stretching out towards the horizon and beyond that still, until eventually stumbling upon an oasis. There were even some oceans, according to his books, that were bright red and bubbling hot, so much so that a single touch was enough to melt flesh and bone. Truly, Earth was Eden's glorious garden.

Once upon a time.

Dib gazed into the old photo album and turned the page wistfully, and he quickly lost himself in the images again. Having been just shy of three years old upon departing Earth his memories of his home world were fading fast, and all he had to remember it by were the pictures in his books, his father's photo albums, and one very fuzzy memory: In that, there was no green whatsoever, only concrete and smoke, and a burning-red sky.  He vaguely recalled an enormous crowd swarming like flies on the final slab of meat upon a carcass stripped of flesh, all so desperate to escape the fast rotting planet they themselves had helped to destroy. The people had poured in from all across America, Mexico, and beyond to try and find salvation. Professor Membrane's great invention was just one of but a handful of ships around the world capable of deep-space travel, and Dib could remember watching the people from the control room alongside his father and wailing baby sister; they were screaming and begging for a place upon the ship already stretched beyond its capacity. “Aren't we going to let them in, daddy...?” Dib had asked curiously, and he couldn't understand why Professor Membrane didn't answer him, nor why he was crying just as much as Gaz was as the ship lifted up from the Earth's soil one last time and took flight, leaving the dying world far behind them.

To this day, Dib still didn't understand it.

With a sigh he closed the album and looked out the window instead, to the real greenery outside infinitely more interesting than the flat pictures. Life aboard the Marina was the world that Dib knew and remembered, and now, his world was extending to a whole new plain of existence outside. When first the ship had landed upon the strange soils only a select handful of Membrane's most trusted advisors were permitted to leave the safety of the Marina to explore the vast forests and its diverse ecosystem; to take pictures and bring back precious samples for Professor Membrane to study: plant matter, fresh produce, the strange bones of creatures yet unknown . . . After many, many moons – so many moons in fact, that Dib had lost count – it was determined that the environment was a suitable biome for humanity's survivors. Fences had been erected all around the ship to create a vast compound, allowing people to venture outside whilst keeping them all safe from the unknown that lay beyond in the jungle. At nightfall curfew began, and no one was allowed to set foot outside for fear of the dark.

In Dib's opinion, this was the very best time to go outside and play.

He opened up the bedroom window and slipped easily outside into a nearby tree. The branches were strong and sturdy, and Dib climbed down like it was second nature. He gasped as his bare feet touched the dew-sodden grass, and he jumped a little on the spot both from the excitement, and the alien sensation he still wasn't used to. There was no grass aboard the Marina, after all. There were green houses and gardens where they grew food plentiful enough to feed their people – but there was no space to run around or explore. Not like this; not like it was in the strange new world.

Bubbling with enthusiasm Dib wandered along the edge of the fence, his hand trailing across the chain-links. The fence reached so high that he was pretty certain it could touch the sky – but clearly not, because it wasn't tall enough to keep the planet's creations from flying over, and sometimes into the compound. Enormous insects; creatures that looked like dragonflies and moths, and hornets even bigger than Professor Membrane himself. Terrifying, but equally so fascinating, and it made Dib wonder, what else is out there?

He gazed longingly through the fence and into the trees. Sometimes, in the dead of lonely night, he almost swore that he could see movement from within the foliage. He'd often find himself hours later still in the same place, his vision growing blurry where he'd been standing staring at the same spot for so long. There was no movement tonight so Dib kept on walking, making his steady way around the perimeter and towards the gardens. The planet's soils were rich with nutrients and happily allowed the seeds of Earth plants to take root. Alongside those, they were now growing a vast array of native fruits and vegetables of this world too. Dib's favourite were the bright pink berries swollen close to bursting with a rich, tart juice that left stains all over his lips, fingers, and everything he touched – but it was worth it. He grabbed a handful as he walked by and popped several into his mouth. He and Gaz liked them a lot, and had taken to calling them blorpberries, on account of the funny noise they made when Dib pushed them against the roof of his mouth, and they exploded over his tongue.

Snap!

Dib's head whipped up towards the fence. A flash of movement darted out from behind the trees, and the next thing he saw was a flurry of frantic motions. Something was digging outside the compound, scratch, scratch, scratching into the ground with a keen ferocity unlike anything Dib had seen before. In the light coming through the windows of the Marina, and the starlit sky dancing in worship around two giant moons, Dib could make out a long tail flaring amid the flying dirt, the tip and the base both crowned by a beautiful tuft of bright pink.

“Wow!” The gasp escaped Dib's lips before he could stop it, and all movement ceased in an instant. The tail stood completely still and erect. Then came another flash of movement as the creature leaped from its hole and into the forest cover. Dib froze in place, one hand clamped over his mouth to keep himself quiet. After a moment of nothing, a pair of bright eyes appeared from within the bushes and shone gloriously in the moonlight; unearthly pink, and utterly magnificent.

“ . . . Hello.” Dib lowered his hand slowly, and whispered just as gently. He saw the shrubs shift as the hidden creature flinched, its wondrous gaze drifting from Dib to the beginnings of its burrow, until Dib himself looked. The hole was situated right across from the gardens ripe with the blorpberries Dib loved so much. He made the connection instantly. “Oh! Are you hungry?” He grabbed a handful and tossed them through the fence. It was the feeble, clumsy throw of a seven-year-old bookworm, and only two landed within easy reach of the bush. Once they were swept away by a hand or tail almost too fast to see with the naked eye, the pink gaze returned, fixated upon the remaining berries out of its reach. Silence fell once more. Dib trembled with anticipation. Please . . . Please get them . . .

Slowly, inch by cautious inch, the creature began to emerge, and it was all Dib could do not to squeal in delight. He watched in silent awe, marveling at its brilliance. Green skin. Two black antennas. A long, strong tail like that of a monitor lizard; powerful, and deadly. It prowled the forest floor on all floors like it owned the place, snatching up the berries in its claws as it went by. And what claws! Three in total on each limb, and wickedly sharp, like that of an ancient dinosaur long since lost to time; they were the perfect tool and weapon both for a harsh life in the jungle. As it walked and ate it kept its eyes fixed suspiciously on Dib. Soon there were none left but for those still in the bush, and the creature sat in between the fence and the forest, its gaze continuously shifting between longing want at the fruit, to suspicious scrutiny at Dib.

“Hi there!” Dib whispered quietly, but his voice was so thick with excitement that he made the creature flinch backwards. “Oh, sorry!” He apologised, his tone dropping even lower in volume for the startled visitor frozen in place. Silence echoed once more as giant pink eyes remained fixated on Dib like lasers, as if trying to pierce through into his skull and see inside of his mind. As such, Dib focused in on a single thought, just in case the creature could indeed read his mind. I won't hurt you, I won't hurt you. Let's be friends.

The creature blinked, then leaped back into its hole and resumed the frantic dig. Dib sat back with his knees tucked to his chest, watching with fast growing anticipation. Dirt came flying from the hole; launched aside unneeded by the creature's immense tail. Soon, the ground beside him began to crumble inwards, opening up a fully-fledged tunnel from one side of the fence to the next. A pair of black antennas poked out first. They twitched. Twice, then the creature emerged from up the hole and shook the dirt from its body. Bright pink eyes soon found their way onto Dib again and held his gaze with ease. It was like gazing into a galaxy before his very eyes; a whole, wide new world lay within the swirling, starry light, and Dib was utterly captivated.

“Hello,” he smiled. “My name's Dib. What's yours?”

[catboybiologist]

I don’t know if I believe in god, but I believe god would celebrate trans people. I think human diversity is beautiful, natural, and unique to all of us. I’ve also seen that the vatican released articles protecting transgender people under similar logic(please correct me if you see otherwise). Anyway, just wanted to counterbalance that anon semen hate thing.. lol

I know this is from a good place, and I'm gonna be the asshole here, but its difficult for me to accept the kindness you're trying to extend.

I think that seeking validation and a moral code from anything other than "live your life in a way that's going to make the most people the most real and happy, including yourself", including seeking that from some kind of being of external influence, makes you susceptible to guilt and manipulation by people who use the ever-changing "interpretation" of that will to get people to live to their interests as opposed to yours, and that this philosophy isn't limited to situations where the will of that being is interpreted as something that benefits me specifically because that feels like a shortsighted mental trap of constantly validating my own life decisions to myself in a nonstop cycle of searching for approval from an influence that, by definition, doesn't communicate with me.

And funnily enough, the Vatican is the perfect example. The statements you're talking about basically amount to the same "love the sinner, hate the sin" shit we've all heard for pretty much our entire lives, and was basically only written with the intent of inviting lgbt people in to try and save their poor little misguided souls:

https://www.reuters.com/world/europe/pope-francis-calls-studies-into-ugly-gender-theory-2024-03-01/

But thanks, I guess. Sorry to be a dick, I know this came from a good place, but its hard for me to mask my opinion on this kind of thing. I'll fully admit there's a personal sting here. I was the most patient, good little, explaining and validating tranny with a couple Christian "friends" earlier this year, only to find that they were stringing me along so they could try to "save" me. Trying to find validation in organized religion will always be a losing battle. These are organizations built upon decades of power structures that require specific family dynamics for population growth and control. I don't know if there's a god or not, by definition its really impossible to say one way or the other. But the Christian God is so transparently a tool for political manipulation in a way that should be obvious to queer people, and efforts to make the church seem "okay" for queer people more often than not have that same, thinly-veiled disgust associated with them. "oh, don't worry, we all have our little sins! Jeff gambles, Tom is gay, John smokes..." that kind of shit. That's not acceptance. It's thinly veiled disgust that will drop the moment there's an excuse.

Are there truly accepting Christians? Yeah, of course. But if you hand me a gun and claim its not loaded, I'm not testing it by pulling the trigger in my mouth.

[ezekiel-krishna]

🏃‍♂️ Your Next Adventure

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Have you had any memorable adventures in 2023?

Pick the image that resonates with you the most. If you feel drawn to more than one image, embrace the diversity and embrace them all!

Pile 1

I see you embarking on a weekend getaway to the countryside. Packed with essentials like a map, snacks, and a camera to capture the beauty around, you set off on to your journey. While travelling along the winding country roads, You couldn't help but be amazed by the vast expanse of green fields and towering trees that stretched out before you. The air was so crisp and clean, a refreshing change from the pollution of the city. You happily sang along to your favorite songs on the phone.

Upon reaching the destination, a charming bed and breakfast nestled in the heart of the countryside, Greeted by the innkeeper's warm and welcoming nature. Settling into your cozy room with delighting floral curtains and the breathtaking view of rolling hills in the distance.

As you set out to hike along a nearby trail, ready to explore the unknown. The fragrance of wildflowers, and the cheerful birdsong accompanied you every step of the way. Pausing for a moment, you couldn't help but admire the crystal-clear and inviting waters of a babbling brook. Continuing your journey, you stumbled upon a hidden meadow, adorned with a riot of vibrant and colorful blooms.

As the sun gracefully descended, casting a stunning palette of pink and gold across the sky, You discovered a secluded spot to settle and contemplate. Surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of nature, you experienced a profound sense of peace and contentment. It was in that very moment that you realized the true value of slowing down, of immersing yourself in the simple pleasures that life has to offer.

As you walked back to the inn, your heart brimming with joy and your spirit revitalized. You realized that your time in the countryside had truly changed you for the better. As you fell asleep, listening to the soothing rustle of leaves outside the window, feeling thankful for the chance to temporarily escape into the peaceful arms of nature.

Pile 2

I catch sight of you taking a solo trip to a foreign land. You meticulously planned your journey, learned about local customs, and loaded your bags with necessities. With a mix of excitement and nervousness, you boarded the plane and set off to explore a new territory. As you arrived in the new country, you were immediately captivated by the vibrant colors, bustling streets, and the melodic chatter of an unfamiliar language.

With a sense of awe, you explored the lively city, indulging in exotic cuisine, immersing yourself in the local customs, and forming new friendships along the way. As you ventured into the countryside, You marveled at the awe-inspiring landscapes, from majestic mountains to tranquil lakes. You visited ancient places, and witnessed traditional ceremonies/cultures that left you in awe. Throughout your journey, You faced challenges and moments of uncertainty, but you confronted them with bravery and an open mind.

You learned to communicate through gestures and smiles, navigate unfamiliar streets, and embracing the unknown with curiosity. By the end of the trip, You not only discovered a new country but also found a newfound sense of independence, resilience, and appreciation for the world's diversity. As you boarded the plane back home, you carried cherished memories of a transformative adventure that had enriched your life beyond imagination.

Pile 3

You made a bold decision to explore a vibrant city for the very first time. Upon arrival, you was enveloped by the hustle and bustle of the urban landscape, with its sea of people, diverse cultures, and towering skyscrapers. You meandered through the bustling streets, admiring the array of faces, languages, and cultures that enveloped you. You strolled through lively markets, where the aroma of exotic spices wafted through the air and vendors beckoned to passersby. Visiting museums, art galleries, and historical landmarks, each providing a glimpse into the city's rich past and bright present.

Despite the constant commotion of the city, You managed to find moments of serenity in peaceful parks and tucked-away alleyways. Standing on a rooftop terrace, you marveled at the sunrise, the cityscape unfolding like a magnificent work of art. In that precise moment, filled with a profound sense of awe and curiosity, realizing the limitless possibilities that lay within the city's grasp. 

With a ticket in hand, you stepped onto the train that would transport you back to your quaint hometown, reflecting back the memories of an extraordinary urban escapade. The city with its buzzing energy, organized chaos, and breathtaking beauty, leaving an everlasting impression. Being well aware of the time you spent exploring its streets and uncovering its mysteries that would forever hold a special place in your heart. As the train chugged away, gazing back at the city's skyline, with a smile adorning face, and a deep sense of gratitude resonating within for the unforgettable adventure you had just lived.

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[calicohyde]

This is a bit of a weird question, but you're the only one I know about who regularly posts about pirates of any kind (admittedly on your other blog) so I figured I'd ask you: what's some stuff you'd want to see more of in pirate fiction? I'm fucking around with a pirate AU for one of my projects and that made me curious - @transman-badass

TL;DR bullet point lists, bolding for emphasis

Necessities:

even if not going for historical accuracy, make sure character designs accurately represent the setting

queer pirates, in particular trans/GNC pirates

POC (Pirates of Color), in particular Black and Indigenous pirates

pirates with body types befitting their lifestyle

religious diversity

Why did you pick pirates if you're not...

commentating on capitalism, colonialism, class, and "crime"

incorporating pirate legends/superstitions in some way

see above points about diversity

Things I personally want to see:

revisit points on diversity again

antivillains

dramatic irony

song and dance

vulgarity

narrative questions built to have no answers

a wider variety of genres; instead of sticking to action/adventure, fantasy, and romance, try a slasher, slice of life, or heist (etc)

More detail on these points + unintentionally effusive praise for Pirates of The Caribbean and Black Sails under the cut.

This is a bit of a (perhaps?) unexpected answer, but my favorite pirate media (that I remember rip) is actually the original PotC trilogy!

While I love the explicit queer representation in Black Sails and OFMD, as well as the political thriller aspect and social realism + commentary of Black Sails, and I'd obviously love to see more of that, they lack some things the first three PotC movies have that I just really fucking love. I don't think any of them are exclusive to pirates necessarily, but I do think a lot of them are particularly well suited to them, and in some ways when they're not incorporated I personally feel like something is missing.

The og PotC trilogy does have its own political aspect and commentary, it's just a bit less confrontational than BS. I wouldn't say it's so subtle as to be a subplot though, it's still a - if not Thee - primary driving factor to the overall narrative and its plot. In my opinion, no pirate media is complete without some aspect of anticapitalist/anticolonialist/antiassimilationist sentiment at its foundation, even if the pirates are not necessarily heroic or righteous - or are downright wicked (derogatory) - in any other way. Pirates make for the perfect antiheroes, antivillains, and villain protagonists, and the latter two are far less explored than the former. And truly what is the point of having a character cast of primarily career thieves if not to say some type of something about the constructs of money and crime?

Another thing is the incorporation of traditional pirate legends/superstitions! I certainly will not be able to find it at will, but there is a post on this site that I wholeheartedly agree with about how cool it is that PotC has a different set of accepted realities depending on who's territory the story is in - i.e. pirate legends are true when the characters are where there be pirates, but aren't on colonial land. There are also pockets of extra depth to the story and characters that only really occur to you if you look at the work through the eyes of someone who exists within the pirates' world, such as Elizabeth's Kiss of Death At Sea.

It also of course ties in perfectly with the allegory; the further colonialism/capitalism spreads -> the smaller pirate habitat shrinks -> the less magic there is/the more reality is confined to only what Is and can no longer extend to what Could Be, shown most directly by the beached Kraken and Jack's response of "The world's still the same [size], there's just less in it." Which in that particular context also reinforces the above highlighted built-in moral ambiguity/acknowledgement of the beauty and necessity of things that may harm you (or pose a challenge to your conquering power), in that only the movie before the Kraken was a direct threat to Jack, and in fact literally killed him, but he still recognizes its extermination as both an indication of worse to come and as a tragedy in its own right. Also shown really well in how an "incorrect" pirate-drawn map can get you places that, when using an "accurate" colonial-standard map, don't exist. And how Beckett can't get Jack's magic compass to work for him even though he knows what it's supposed to do, only a pirate (or pirate-to-be like Norrington) can use it. The Power of Belief in this way is and always will be my number one homie. I got slightly off topic and just started talking about PotC. Anyway.

The dual accepted realities allow for really great dramatic irony as well. Gods and monsters and cursed treasure and impossibly fast and unsinkable ships and the undead are all real, and the audience knows all that based merely on the setup, but to the characters it's a shocking twist. Black Sails has some dramatic irony that I really love as well. The audience knows that Black Sails is a Treasure Island prequel, and they know the culmination of the featured historical events, but the characters don't. I eat that shit up and it's fucking delicious every time. And I also love that good good opposite of dramatic irony in these too, where the audience will never know something the characters do. BS does it through a well crafted metafiction narrative and unreliable narrators. "A story is true, a story is untrue," and this story acknowledges itself as a story - one told by conquerers, liars, visionaries, and warrior poets. We will never know what "really" happened, and we're not meant to.

Anyway even if pirate legends aren't real or *shrug emoji* in-universe, I again think pirate media is incomplete if a few aren't textually present in some other way.

Back to representation stuff. As I said, while Black Sails and OFMD have it pretty good, there should be way more queer pirates, and in particular trans/gender-nonconforming pirates. I'd specifically like to see a portrayal of Mary/Mark Read as being trans/fluid/whatever, rather than "disguised" or "mistaken" as a man (if the piece features historical figures). Equally so, there needs to be way more racial diversity in pirate media, in particular Black and Indigenous pirates. Probably most of the famous Captains you could name off the top of your head were white Englishmen, but there's a lot of evidence that a high percentage of pirates were not. So tbh I think this is less of a "feels" incomplete thing and more of an IS incomplete thing.

Likewise, there should be more body diversity and religious diversity. These things are obviously inaccurate and a Choice to exclude anywhere, but again imo an extra level of dumbassery to exclude from a pirate thing. Model/movie star body types should be rare; we need to be looking at athletes and laborers when designing Golden Age sailors. We need to be taking into account the available medicine of the time period and the lasting consequences thereof, as well as more of the (known) cultural ideas about body differences, neurological differences, sickness, and death. And as for religion, there seems to be vast swathes of people who think once upon a time everyone was either a Christian (be that Good or Bad) or a Savage (whether Noble/Mystic or not). And that is SO deeply fucking annoying - to say it in the blandest, most diplomatic way possible lol.

Even if you're not going to go in for much historical accuracy, you're doing a fantastical/romanticized/comedic/etc version, or you're making a whole secondary world from scratch, you really should be figuring out what would be accurate to the conditions you create. If your piece takes place on a frigate sailing the open ocean in the tropics for long periods of time while the nearest land is being colonized by monarchic northerners in an approximation of the 17th century, the characters should reflect that just as much as the setting and plot.

Now for some things I wouldn't necessarily be disappointed about being absent, but that I would just be kinda jazzed to see. First: song, dance, storytelling, riddles, foul language, and bawdy jokes. This kind of goes hand in hand with the legends and all, but is an extra layer that isn't put on enough! PotC and OFMD have some song, and BS as already mentioned is pretty heavy on storytelling both diegetically and as a main theme. I just want more.

Second, I'd love to see a wider variety of genres. We're spoiled for pirate action/adventure, fantasy, romance/erotica, and coming of age. I want to see some scifi that isn't just pirates In Space (not that I have anything against pirates In Space or think it's not scifi Enough, but we're not starving for it). Pirate slasher. Pirate slice of life. Pirate whodunit. Pirate time travel. Pirate psychological thriller. Pirate disaster/post-apocalypse. Pirate slipstream/surrealism. Pirate heist!! Pirate procedural? somehow?? You get it.

I think I've talked enough now wkgoiuwksk.

[soob1nn]

MY FILMS - ADULT FAME DR

REMINDER! I haven’t shifted yet, so all these is just my imagination 🤍

masterlist - main masterlist

Films are a powerful medium of storytelling and artistic expression. Combining visual, auditory, and narrative elements, films captivate audiences, transporting them to diverse worlds, evoking emotions, and sparking thought. From silent classics to cutting-edge blockbusters, the world of cinema has evolved, reflecting societal changes and pushing creative boundaries. Whether it's the magic of a well-crafted screenplay, the mesmerizing performances of actors, or the technical brilliance behind the scenes, films continue to be a dynamic and influential form of entertainment and cultural expression.

PIRATES OF THE CARIBBEAN

The "Pirates of the Caribbean" saga is a cinematic adventure like no other, immersing audiences in a world of high-seas exploits, swashbuckling action, and supernatural wonders. This beloved franchise, brought to life by the charismatic Captain Jack Sparrow, has left an indelible mark on the world of cinema.

What sets the "Pirates of the Caribbean" saga apart is its perfect fusion of thrilling action and cleverly woven mythology. From the very first installment, "The Curse of the Black Pearl," to subsequent sequels, the films have taken viewers on a journey filled with cursed treasures, mythical creatures, and, of course, eccentric pirates.

At the heart of the saga is the enigmatic Captain Jack Sparrow, portrayed brilliantly by Johnny Depp. Jack's witty charm, unpredictable antics, and ever-present quest for rum have made him an iconic character in cinematic history.

The franchise's success also lies in its ability to seamlessly blend history and fantasy. The Caribbean settings, the pirate code, and the age of exploration provide a historically rich backdrop for the fantastical elements like cursed Aztec gold, undead sailors, and mermaids.

Each film in the series has introduced new characters and expanded upon the lore, creating a vast and interconnected narrative that keeps fans eagerly awaiting the next installment.

With unforgettable moments, memorable quotes, and a score that resonates long after the credits roll, the "Pirates of the Caribbean" saga has carved its place as a beloved classic. It's a thrilling voyage into the world of pirates, where legends, curses, and epic battles reign, making it a timeless adventure that continues to captivate audiences of all ages.

BEAUTY OF THE BEAST

"Beauty and the Beast," in its live-action adaptation, breathes new life into a timeless tale that has enchanted generations. This magical film takes the beloved animated classic and transforms it into a visually stunning and emotionally captivating experience.

Set in a picturesque French village, the story follows the intelligent and kind-hearted Belle, brilliantly portrayed by Emma Watson, who longs for more than the provincial life she leads. When her father becomes a prisoner in the enchanted castle of the Beast, played by Dan Stevens, Belle courageously takes his place, embarking on a journey of discovery, love, and the power of inner beauty.

With its stunning visual effects, lavish costumes, and memorable musical score, the live-action "Beauty and the Beast" faithfully pays homage to the original while adding depth to its characters and narrative. The film not only celebrates the power of love but also explores themes of tolerance, acceptance, and the beauty that lies within.

This enchanting adaptation is a cinematic masterpiece that captures the hearts of both long-time fans and new audiences, reaffirming the enduring power of this classic tale as old as time. "Beauty and the Beast" in its live-action form invites us to be their guest in a world where magic and love flourish, reminding us that beauty truly comes from within.

LITTLE WOMEN

"Little Women" stands as a cinematic jewel, capturing the timeless essence of Louisa May Alcott's literary masterpiece. This film adaptation, directed by Greta Gerwig, breathes new life into the beloved narrative of the March sisters, presenting a fresh and poignant take on sisterhood, ambition, and the pursuit of one's dreams.

Set against the backdrop of the American Civil War, "Little Women" unfolds the lives of the four March sisters—Jo, Meg, Beth, and Amy—each with distinctive personalities and aspirations. The film gracefully weaves between the past and present, allowing audiences to witness the joys and challenges of the sisters as they navigate the trials of womanhood, love, and societal expectations.

With an all-star cast featuring Winter Reed Jackman, Emma Watson, Florence Pugh, and Eliza Scanlen as the March sisters, and an exceptional performance by Timothée Chalamet as Laurie, the film brings these iconic characters to life with depth and authenticity.

Greta Gerwig's directorial prowess shines through as she infuses "Little Women" with a contemporary spirit, resonating with modern audiences while maintaining the timeless charm of the original story. The film is a celebration of the strength, resilience, and individuality of women, urging viewers to embrace their ambitions and forge their paths.

"Little Women" is a poignant and visually captivating cinematic journey that captures the spirit of sisterhood and the pursuit of one's aspirations. It invites audiences to revisit the cherished tale with fresh eyes, offering a profound and emotionally resonant experience for both new and devoted fans of this literary classic.

KNIVES OUT

"Knives Out" is a modern masterpiece in the realm of whodunits, a brilliantly crafted film that masterfully blends mystery, humor, and a star-studded ensemble cast. Directed by Rian Johnson, this murder-mystery film takes audiences on a rollercoaster ride of suspense, twists, and dark humor.

The story centers around the death of wealthy crime novelist Harlan Thrombey, portrayed by Christopher Plummer. When renowned detective Benoit Blanc, played by Daniel Craig, is enlisted to investigate, the Thrombey family becomes the focal point of scrutiny. With each member harboring secrets and motives, the plot thickens, and the suspense escalates.

"Knives Out" boasts a stellar cast including Daniel Craig, Winter Reed Jackman, Chris Evans, Jamie Lee Curtis, and more, each delivering standout performances that contribute to the film's gripping atmosphere. The narrative is cleverly layered, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats as they attempt to unravel the intricate web of deception and motive.

Beyond its gripping storyline, "Knives Out" is a sharp and satirical take on family dynamics, privilege, and the consequences of wealth. Rian Johnson's expert direction and sharp dialogue elevate the film, making it a delightful homage to classic whodunits while infusing it with a contemporary edge.

This cinematic gem not only keeps the audience guessing until the very end but also provides a fresh and entertaining perspective on the murder mystery genre. "Knives Out" is a clever and stylish film that engages the mind, tickles the funny bone, and ultimately leaves a lasting impression, establishing itself as a standout in the pantheon of modern cinema.

TOP GUN: MAVERICK

"Top Gun: Maverick" is a highly anticipated sequel that soars into the iconic world of fighter jets and high-stakes aerial combat. Directed by Joseph Kosinski and starring Tom Cruise reprising his role as Pete "Maverick" Mitchell, this film is a thrilling continuation of the 1986 classic, "Top Gun."

Set decades after the events of the original film, Captain Maverick finds himself adapting to a new era of aerial warfare dominated by drone technology. As he mentors a new generation of Top Gun graduates, the film promises heart-pounding dogfights, cutting-edge aviation sequences, and a nostalgic nod to the beloved elements that made the first film an enduring favorite.

"Top Gun: Maverick" not only reintroduces fans to the adrenaline-fueled world of fighter pilots but also introduces fresh faces played by actors like Miles Teller and Winter Reed Jackman. With its combination of high-octane action and character-driven storytelling, the film aims to capture the spirit of the original while propelling the narrative into uncharted skies.

As Maverick confronts his past and embraces the challenges of the future, the film offers a blend of nostalgia and innovation, promising an exhilarating cinematic experience for both longtime fans and a new generation of moviegoers. "Top Gun: Maverick" is poised to be a blockbuster that reignites the Maverick legend while delivering a visual spectacle that takes the iconic franchise to new heights.

THE SEVEN HUSBANDS OF EVELYN HUGO

"The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo" unfolds on the silver screen as a spellbinding cinematic journey through the glitz and glamour of Hollywood's Golden Age. Adapted from Taylor Jenkins Reid's compelling novel, this film invites audiences into the captivating life story of Evelyn Hugo, a legendary film actress portrayed with brilliance and nuance.

In the film, we follow Evelyn's journey through the decades, beautifully capturing the essence of old Hollywood. The glamorous sets, meticulously crafted costumes, and evocative cinematography transport viewers to a bygone era where stars shone brightly on and off the screen.

As the narrative unfolds, the complexities of Evelyn’s seven marriages come to life, each husband portrayed by a stellar cast that adds depth to the character-driven drama. The film navigates the twists and turns of Evelyn’s life, revealing secrets, scandals, and the sacrifices made in the pursuit of fame and love.

The storytelling prowess of Taylor Jenkins Reid is masterfully translated to the screen, with Evelyn's compelling voice narrating her journey. The film seamlessly weaves together themes of identity, love, and the price of success, creating an emotional tapestry that resonates with audiences.

While exploring the intricacies of Evelyn's life, the film introduces Monique Grant, the journalist chosen by Evelyn to tell her story. Monique's personal journey becomes an integral part of the cinematic narrative, adding layers of depth and connection to the overarching tale.

"The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo" on the big screen is more than a glamorous expose of Hollywood excess; it's a poignant exploration of the human experience. The film's rich storytelling, combined with outstanding performances and lush visuals, elevates it beyond a mere adaptation, making it a cinematic triumph that lingers in the hearts of viewers long after the final credits roll.

[darklinsblog]

Little Prince | Sandman Imagine

Summary: You ask Morpheus to read to you your favorite story growing up, The Little Prince

Pairing: Morpheus x Human! Reader

Requested: Yes

Author’s note: Special mention to @saraicus who made spoil a tad bit of this imagine hehe

Ever since you could recall, you had loved the book of the Little Prince, from a child to now as an adult it was just some sort of safe space, something you could always revisit whenever.

Whether you were feeling sad or you simply wanted to reminisce on your memories linked to this very specific book, you found yourself reading it over and over again.

Each time you read it, you found something new, maybe another lesson to be learned or just something in the book itself you hadn’t notice before.

As usual you entered the library and grabbed a set of books and Lucienne, the librarian and dear friend of yours was already stretching your comfort story into your direction.

You smiled holding back a laugh

“Am I really that predictable?”

“I firmly believe that every single one of us needs a book to comfort us” she spoke sweetly.

“Even if it’s a children’s book?”

“A child will always possess an infinite imagination, maybe as a adults we see more beauty to the world through the eyes of a child”

Maybe she was write, perhaps it was a good thing, maybe you were keeping your inner child close while still learning about diverse topics.

Truth be told, you spend most of your time at the library, it was quiet, peaceful and it could be just you and whatever story you would immerse yourself in.

As you read, you were softly interrupted by a kiss at the top of your head, you looked up to see Morpheus softly smiling down at you.

“Enjoying your read?” He asked softly, making you smile and nod.

“Very much so” you said, you were writing a mythology book, but by the corner of his eye he noticed the very familiar book to you.

He stretched out to grab it, feeling the sense of the book cover, the pages, he had seen this book countless times over the years but now, it held a special place in his heart.

Morpheus could not get even a simple glance at the book without his eyes glistening or a soft smile forming on his lips.

Because now this book, inherently reminded him of you, the one object of all his affection, longing and hope.

“What’s on your mind, my king?” You questioned him with a hint of curiosity

“Mind if I read this to you, later tonight?” He asked quite cautiously, not being sure of how you would react, but as he saw your eyes glistening, air seemed to find its way back to his lungs.

“That would be lovely”

You were quite excited to have Morpheus read for you, because he knew how much this reading meant for you.

Something you loved was that Morpheus never fault a single promise and today was no different because at night time, right after finishing his duties he was ready to read for you.

He sat on the bed, signaling you to come closer, you carefully laid on his chest and he grabbed the book of the Little Prince and started reading out loud for you.

His voice was so relaxing and listening to the story on his voice made you love it more and be more attentive.

“It is only with the heart that one can see clearly…” he went on narrating and this time you could help yourself to finish the sentence you knew so well.

“…What is essential is invisible to the eye”

This time you looked at your lover, who smiled at you and kissed your cheek, he closed the book and embraced you fully, keeping you warm and safe.

Your whole body felt loose under him and right now you wished this moment would last forever, that you could stay like this, almost frozen in time.

Like nothing truly mattered.

The King of Dreams could feel you slowly falling asleep in his arms and it was reassuring for him to know you were comfortable enough to let yourself drift into your sleep.

“Rest, my lady. We have countless days ahead of us” he murmured in your ear and was the last thing you heard as you finally fell asleep.

Taglist: @emiemiemiii @ladyfairenvale @hungrhay @aurorarevenclaw1927 @adishax @meganmayhem89 @mrs-captainsteverogers @hb8301 @bambooing-shenanigans @queenshelby @characterxreaderimagine @emarich7 @carolcrysis @coolsnowker @jesllianaquilesrolon @supermegapauselouca @vvsdreaming

[hldailyupdate]

Today marks the first day of Pride Month for 2024. 🏳️‍🌈

As we step into this vibrant and joyous celebration, let’s take a moment to honor and uplift every member of the LGBTQIA+ community. This month is not just a time to celebrate love, diversity, and the beautiful spectrum of identities; it’s also a reminder of the strength, resilience, and courage that define our community. To every lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex, and asexual out there: you are seen, you are valued, and you are loved. Your presence adds color to the world, making it a more beautiful and inclusive place for everyone. Your journey, no matter where you are on it, is unique and important. Pride Month is a powerful testament to the progress we’ve made and a call to continue fighting for equality and acceptance. It’s also a time to look forward, standing together in solidarity and love, working towards a future where everyone can live authentically and without fear. So, let’s celebrate our identities with joy and pride. Let’s support each other with kindness and compassion. And let’s remember that love, in all its forms, is something truly beautiful and worth celebrating every single day.

Happy Pride!🌈

You are loved. You are accepted. And you are absolutely wonderful, just as you are. ❤️

[ancho-s]

If you want to keep all the plot twists, then read no further! If not, then there are additions to the GOOD ending.

And finally! How are things going with Hugo?

As mentioned, Hugo is unaware that Macula is now in Amicia's blood. Throughout his life, the original corruption poisoned his blood, and after all this time, to feel freedom from the curse for the first time was something unthinkable. Something that changed literally EVERYTHING…

Hugo lived with his sister and Lucas in the mountains for several years before the desire to move forward appeared in him. The curiosity of a deprived, previously imprisoned child pushed him into a new world. And now Hugo was not the one who would destroy it…

For a long time torn between his sister and the desire to move on, Hugo eventually, with the permission of Amicia, goes on a journey with Lucas.

Guilt for many deaths determines his future vocation: in order to atone, Hugo shows interest in healing. With Lucas's help, he studies medicine and becomes a talented physician. They travel around cities in search of the latest knowledge, catching fateful events in the world of science (for example, the first autopsies in Paris).

The world, so diverse, at the same time beautiful and cruel, bows before the boy…

And yet Hugo does not forget about his sister. He and Lucas often visit her, bringing her various things. Adult life changes Hugo: he goes through all the stages of growing up, partially losing his naivety and innocence, moving from a child to a teenager, from a teenager to a young man. However, the boy grows up to be someone Amicia could be truly proud of.

Being taller than his sister, Hugo keeps his promise to help her. The bonds do not weaken.

They are still the proud, strong family of De Rune. And he is its new, strengthened branch, which is lucky to survive…

[cryptoriascollectiblog]

Things I love about G3 part four: the different body types

I don’t know about the rest of you, but the different body molds in G3 were one of if not the first sign that this generation was going to be authentically inclusive - and it was so exciting! I don’t know of any other major doll lines with such diversity this way! Like yes, G1 had different heights, but now we have tall dolls, short dolls, super tall dolls, curvy dolls, curvier dolls and truly plus-sized dolls like Catty Noir (who would’ve been in this photo if she were on shelves yet.) Venus is here instead of Cleo because at the time I took this I thought she and Cleo shared a body type - but I’ve been told they had the same thigh mold, while l Venus is on the standard body. My bad!

Anyway, the body type diversity is so amazing!! I know I feel seen in Frankie’s taller body mold and I have friends who feel the same way about Draculaura and Abbey! I also love that Mattel brought back the addition of molded fur and scales, and added prosthetics as well! We as adults - especially those of us in our thirties - know what it’s like to grow up in a world of extremely limited beauty standards and acceptance: this is just another great way to teach kids (and narrow-minded parents) that beauty comes in many forms and you can love yourself just the way you are.

I love living in a world where Monster High fully understands and embraces the power of its tagline: be yourself, be unique, be a monster🖤